databanks pull at our atoms
our bits of behavior
denuded of shadow
penumbras of privacy
stripped from our words
and opinions exchanged
via keystrokes and cellular pulses
transactions peculiarly personal
now lie spread-eagled
exposed to brass bureaucrats
secrets of modesty scrutinized
choices of habit form profiles
inferred inclinations
described in an evermore
sharp-raised relief
all in name of
benevolent government
smiling its mollifcations
paternalist duties invoked
with each unwelcome touch
of its impudent fingers
inside of our clothes
and our minds

Like this:

This Norman Rockwell painting appeared in Look magazine in 1968. It is titled “The Right to Know.” Here is the caption: We are the governed, but we govern too. Assume our love of country, for it is only the simplest of self-love. Worry little about our strength, for we have our history to show for it. And because we are strong, there are others who have hope. But watch closely from now on, for those of us who stand here mean to watch those we put in the seats of power. And listen to us, you who lead, for we are listening harder for the truth that you have not always offered us. Your voice must be ours, and ours speaks of cities that are not safe, and of wars we do not want, of poor in a land of plenty, and of a world that will not take the shape our arms would give it. We are not fierce, and the truth will not frighten us. Trust us, for we have given you our trust. We are the governed, remember, but we govern too.

where’s the parade
for the regular Joes
the everyday Janes
solid citizens
leading their lives
without drama
pursuing the dream
not illusions
seeking modestly
quiet contentment
respecting the rules
stoically struggling
to hurdle the obstacles
wantonly thrown
with ruling class glee
in their paths by a
government grown
to an insular bloat
disconnected from
people who bear
all the weight
of a civilized upright
exceptional nation
for they are the
spine of republic

petals drawn
through warm blood
drip their sacrifice
staining pressed
peaceful lapels
with remembrance
of lives never lived
beyond wars
lost to exigent
perils of politics
fouled with aggression
demanding and daring
the best of our youth
stand and fight
for the principled
causes of liberty

each generation
has answered that
terrible call
rising tall
to the challenge
each time without fail
laid their beautiful
bodies between
right and wrong
in those reddening
fields where their
valor would seed
and volition
would propagate
delicate monuments
flowers for heroes
to decorate memory

VICEDOMINI OF THE WUP New Name, New Location! Welcome to our poetry corner, The Poets’ Corner NEW SITE! The name has been changed to (our) because it belongs to all of us who post! Sincerely hope you find the change easy and exciting to be here! Please feel free to post and comment your thoughts so we all can enjoy!